“What?” I ask, shocked. “He doesn’tlookat me.”
“He does. He always has,” Gemma says.
What? Have I really been that oblivious this entire time?
Anna nods, continuing, “And anyway, Lucas can’t be angry even if something did happen.”
“He’s Lucas’s younger brother, Anna,” I say in a small voice, looking down. “It’s too close to home. Sure, he’s good-looking, but?—”
Anna scoffs. “Good-looking? April, a blind lesbian would be attracted to that man.”
Gemma laughs. “You already know what I think of him.”
I narrow my eyes and point at her. “Don’t even go there.”
She presses her lips together, clearly fighting the grin threatening to break free.
“Ugh,” I say, frustrated. “It doesn’t make any sense.”
Gemma shoots me a sympathetic smile. “That’s completely understandable. Emotions aren’t exclusive. You’re allowed to feel a range of things simultaneously. It’s normal to find James attractive while acknowledging Lucas’s shortcomings. They’re different people, and one feeling doesn’t cancel out the other.”
“Oh my God,” I state, dropping my head into my hands. “I’m such a mess!”
“Maybe this thing with James will be good for you,” Anna chimes in.
I look up, my brows pinched. “What do you mean?”
“Well, Lucas and James aren’t close, right?” she asks.
“Right …,” I start, unsure of where she’s going with this.
“So, have you considered maybe seeing where things could go with James?”
“Anna, they’rerelated,” I say.
“So? And you were Lucas’sfiancée. It didn’t stop him from doing whatever the fuck he wanted.” I wince before she continues. “Why should Lucas’s opinion stop you from seeking happiness?”
“I’m not even sure James sees me that way,” I say.
“April, please.” She looks at me in disbelief. “No one’s buying that crap. The man had his hands on your tit and your minge less than twenty-four hours ago.”
I feel my cheeks pinken. “I think I’ll send him a message. Just a quick thank-you for bringing me home … and I’ll apologise for what happened.”
“I don’t think you need to say anything, but if it will help you, then I don’t see anything wrong with it,” Gemma says.
“Agreed. If it makes you feel better, then I think it could help,” Anna adds, nodding.
It’s a good idea.
It will clear the air.
I pull out my phone and begin typing a message.
Me:I’m really sorry about last night. I apologise if I made you feel uncomfortable. I wasn’t myself. But I appreciate you seeing me home, thank you.
I blow out a breath and drop my phone on the counter, anxiously awaiting a reply.
Chapter 20
